With the great variety of bushwalking equipment available these days it is tempting to carry equipment that is not required. It would be easy to purchase the latest and most colourful gear but we must ask ourselves, is it really necessary?

Carrying the latest pink lycra one piece high tech bushwalking suit may well reduce the weight of your pack, but if we use a Primus blowtorch for a stove or carry two pairs of jeans to use in the evening or even carry 1 litre of cooking oil on a 3 day walk, we have negated the weight benefits of the suit.

Here are a few ideas to reduce the weight of your pack on a walk. First get rid of all those things you don’t need or use, such as a spare toothbrush. Unnecessary clothing can be ditched but remember in alpine areas it can snow at any time of the year. A ¾ length Thermarest is a lighter alternative to the full length version, and if it gets too cold you can always place some spare clothing under your legs. Sleeping bags are available without any down in the base although some people find that they get cold when they turn over. Carrying titanium pots may save you a few grams but the new coated aluminium pans are not much heavier. A one man tent is lighter to carry than a two man tent when there will only be one occupant.

But there are some things you must carry - a First Aid kit and plastic survival bag are essential safety items.

Remember the heavier the pack the slower you will walk